Help Elijah Duplichain Attend the Southern Tea Awards
My name is Elizabeth Duplechain and I am the proud mother of an incredible young man named Elijah Duplechain from Opelousas, Louisiana. Elijah is a content creator and influencer who has Down syndrome and autism. Through simply being himself, his joy, honesty, humor, and pure heart, Elijah has inspired and touched thousands of people across Facebook and TikTok. He goes viral daily, not because he tries to be famous, but because his light reaches people in ways words often cannot. This year, something truly special happened. Elijah was nominated by his followers for the Founder’s Award at the Southern Tea Awards. Knowing that so many people took the time to uplift him and put his name forward means more to us than we could ever express. As excited and grateful as I am, I am also being very honest about our situation. I am on a fixed income and provide for Elijah full-time. Attending the Southern Tea Awards is an honor, but it also comes with expenses that I simply cannot manage on my own. Because Elijah is autistic, large crowds can be extremely overwhelming and overstimulating for him. To ensure his comfort, safety, and emotional well-being, Elijah truly needs a VIP table, which provides space away from the crowd so he can enjoy this moment without distress. The cost of a VIP table is $1,000.
In addition to the VIP table, we also need help covering:
• Elijah’s suit and shoes
• My dress, shoes, and simple jewelry
• Transportation and preparation for the event
This is not easy for me to ask. I am not someone who is comfortable reaching out for help. But this opportunity exists because of the people who love and support Elijah, and I want him to experience this moment that you helped create. Every donation, no matter the amount, brings us closer to making this possible. If you are unable to donate, sharing this fundraiser means just as much and helps us reach others who may be able to help. Your support is not just helping Elijah attend an awards show.
It is helping a young man with Down syndrome and autism feel celebrated, included, safe, and seen.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you for loving Elijah, supporting his journey, and believing in his light.
With gratitude,
Elizabeth Duplichain